Mobile modular foundation systems and methods for transporting same

ABSTRACT

A modular foundation system comprises a concrete reinforced matrix having embedded pre-tensioned components and a recessed tension bolster region adjacent the lower surface of the foundation at each end, and a pair of lifting safety bars partially embedded in the foundation within the recess and terminating at the end of the foundation.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of and priority to U.S. PatentApplication No. 62/732,431, entitled Tension Component FoundationSystems and Methods of Transport, filed on Sep. 17, 2018, the entirecontents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO APPENDIX

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The inventions disclosed and taught herein relate generally to modularconcrete foundation systems and methods for lifting and transportingsame

Description of the Related Art

U.S. Pat. No. 3,834,111 entitled “Method For Transporting BuildingModules” discloses “A building module transporter for connection to atowing vehicle comprising a building module and module carriers attachedto end walls of the module and resting on carrier supports. The carriersare firmly secured to the module at vertically spaced points to suspendthe module between them and to permit the raising and lowering of thesuspended module by pivoting the carriers about horizontal axes withrespect to the supports. Means is provided for moving the module withrespect to the carriers in a lateral direction to facilitate theprecision alignment of the module with a foundation at the buildingsite. The spaced connection points between the module and the carrierstension a lower portion of the suspended building and place an upperportion thereof in compression.”

U.S. Pat. No. 4,200,305 entitled “Trailer assembly for carryingoverwidth loads” discloses “A trailer assembly for carrying overwidthloads such as large rectangular concrete slabs. The trailer includes twoseparate units, a front unit and a rear unit. Each unit includes a framemounted on a set of tandem wheels. The front unit has upper and lowerframes rotatably connected together, allowing the wheels to turn withrespect to the upper frame. A tongue is hingedly connected to the frontunit. It has a hitch for connection to the towing vehicle and acompression device to apply weight to the hitch for compressiveconnection with the towing vehicle. Longitudinal cross members aremounted across the front and rear units to support the load. The crossmembers can be removed and stored parallel to the length of the unitsfor legal width return trip towing. On return trip, the rear unit istowed reverse to the direction towed while loaded. Also disclosed is anembodiment employing two units the same or similar to the front unit toenable being moved laterally to facilitate parking in close space.”

U.S. Pat. No. 7,112,029 entitled “Carrier Apparatus and Method”discloses “A carrier apparatus and method includes a pair of oppositelypositioned carriers. At least one pair of steerable wheels is connectedto at least one of the oppositely positioned carriers. A movable neck isconnected to each of the oppositely positioned carriers and bycompressive engagement to an object to be carried such that neither themovable neck, nor the pairs of steerable wheels, nor the pair ofoppositely positioned carriers are underneath the object.”

U.S. Pat. No. 10,155,467 entitled “Systems And Methods For TransportingA Structure” discloses “A system and method for lifting and moving astructure comprises at least two bolster assemblies configured to engagesubstantially opposing ends of the structure, a plurality of tensionedcomponents extending between the bolster assemblies, applying acompressive force to clamp the bolster assemblies to the structure, andapplying a lifting force to the bolster assemblies to lift thestructure.”

The present inventions are directed to improve modular concretefoundation systems configured to be transported and systems and methodsfor transporting same.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A brief non-limiting summary of one of the many possible embodiments ofthe present invention comprises a modular foundation with a top surfaceon which a structure may be erected; a load reaction column comprising afirst structural component and a second structural component, thereaction column embedded in the foundation system at the junction ofeach side beam with its associated end beam such that the secondcomponent is positioned at a bottom surface of the side beam; aplurality of pre-tensioned wire cables embedded in the foundation systemalong each side beam spanning between the reaction columns associatedwith each side beam; a lifting safety bar adjacent each reaction columnand comprising a length of rod a portion of which is embedded in thefoundation system and the remaining portion of which is exposed and notembedded in the foundation system, an end of the exposed rod issubstantially flush with an outer surface of the end beam; and a tensionbolster region defined by each end beam between the side beams andhaving a depth along the side beams defined by an outer surface of theend beam and an outer surface of the embedded lifting safety bar.

Another brief non-limiting summary of one of the many possibleembodiments of the present invention comprises a lifting andtransporting system for a modular foundation system with aa first andsecond tension bolsters each comprising a beam having first and secondsafety bar openings adjacent each beam end, the openings defining atension axis, first and second sets of reaction lugs extending away fromthe beam in plane with the tension axis, a plurality of tension cableopenings disposed between the first and second set of reaction lugs andaligned with the tension axis plane, each tension bolster configured tomate with an end of a modular foundation such that safety barsassociated with the modular foundation can be are received in the firstand second safety bar openings; a first and second compression bolsterseach comprising a beam having first and second guide pins adjacent eachbeam end, a compression surface on one face of the beam between theguide pins, first and second sets of reaction lugs extending away fromthe compression surface and normal to the compression surface, eachcompression bolster configured to mate with the end of the modularfoundation such that the guide pins can be received in guide pinopenings in the modular foundation and the compression surface cancontact a portion of the end beam of the modular foundation; a pluralityof tension cables configured to extend between the first and secondtension cable openings when the first and second tension bolsters areoperatively coupled to a modular foundation; a first and secondactuation assembly each comprising a frame and at least one armrotatably coupled to the frame, the at least one arm comprising a forkat one end and configured to engage the tension bolster reaction lug,and a second end, the arm configured to operatively couple to thecompression bolster reaction lugs between the fork and the second end;and a first and second hydraulic piston, each coupled between the frameand the second end of the arm, such that when the tension bolsters andcompression bolsters are operatively coupled to a modular foundation,extension of the hydraulic pistons causes the arms to rotate about thetension bolster reaction lugs and press the compression bolsters intothe modular foundation sufficient to lift and transport the modularfoundation.

None of these brief summaries of the inventions is intended to limit orotherwise affect the scope of the appended claims, and nothing stated inthis Brief Summary of the Invention is intended as a definition of aclaim term or phrase or as a disavowal or disclaimer of claim scope.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The following figures form part of the present specification and areincluded to demonstrate further certain aspects of the presentinvention. The invention may be better understood by reference to one ormore of these figures in combination with the detailed description ofspecific embodiments presented herein.

FIG. 1A illustrates an underside view of a portion of a modularfoundation system incorporating one or more of the inventions disclosedherein.

FIG. 1B illustrates one of many possible embodiments of a load reactioncolumn suitable for use with foundation systems incorporating one ormore of the inventions disclosed herein.

FIG. 1C illustrates one of many possible embodiments of a lifting safetybar suitable for use with modular foundation systems incorporating oneor more of the inventions disclosed herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates an end view of a modular foundation systemincorporating one or more of the inventions disclosed herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of a modular foundation systemincorporating one or more of the inventions disclosed herein.

FIG. 4 illustrates one of many possible embodiments of a foundation formor mold useful for creating modular foundation systems incorporating oneor more of the inventions disclosed herein.

FIG. 5 illustrates one of many possible embodiments of a tension bolstersuitable for with the modular foundation systems disclosed herein.

FIG. 6 illustrates an underside view of a portion of a modularfoundation system with a tension bolster operatively connected thereto.

FIG. 7 illustrates one of many possible embodiments of a tension cablenut useful with the inventions disclosed herein.

FIG. 8 illustrates a one of many possible embodiments of a compressionbolster suitable for use with the modular foundation systems disclosedherein.

FIG. 9 illustrates a modular foundation system to which a tensionbolster and compression bolster are operatively coupled.

FIG. 10 illustrates a tension bolster and a compression bolsteroperatively coupled to a portion of one of many possible embodiments ofa lifting system.

FIG. 11 illustrates a modular foundation system according the presentinventions being transported.

FIG. 12 illustrates one of many possible alternate embodiments of amodular foundation system incorporating one or more of the inventionsdisclosed herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates portions of one of many possible embodiments of atension bolster useful with the modular foundation system illustrated inFIG. 12 .

FIG. 14 illustrates other portions of the tension bolster of FIG. 13useful with the modular foundation system illustrated in FIG. 13 .

While the inventions disclosed herein are susceptible to variousmodifications and alternative forms, only a few specific embodimentshave been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described indetail below. The figures and detailed descriptions of these specificembodiments are not intended to limit the breadth or scope of theinventive concepts or the appended claims in any manner. Rather, thefigures and detailed written descriptions are provided to illustrate theinventive concepts to a person of ordinary skill in the art and toenable such person to make and use the inventive concepts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The Figures described above, and the written description of specificstructures and functions below are not presented to limit the scope ofwhat I have invented or the scope of the appended claims. Rather, theFigures and written description are provided to teach any person skilledin the art to make and use the inventions for which patent protection issought. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all featuresof a commercial embodiment of the inventions are described or shown forthe sake of clarity and understanding. Persons of skill in this art willalso appreciate that the development of an actual commercial embodimentincorporating aspects of the present inventions will require numerousimplementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimategoal for the commercial embodiment. Such implementation-specificdecisions may include, and likely are not limited to, compliance withsystem-related, business-related, government-related, and otherconstraints, which may vary by specific implementation, location andfrom time to time. While a developer's efforts might be complex andtime-consuming in an absolute sense, such efforts would be,nevertheless, a routine undertaking for those of skill in this arthaving benefit of this disclosure. It must be understood that theinventions disclosed and taught herein are susceptible to numerous andvarious modifications and alternative forms. Lastly, the use of asingular term, such as, but not limited to, “a,” is not intended aslimiting of the number of items. Also, the use of relational terms, suchas, but not limited to, “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “upper,”“lower,” “down,” “up,” “side,” and the like are used in the writtendescription for clarity in specific reference to the Figures and are notintended to limit the scope of the invention or the appended claims.

Reference throughout this disclosure to “one embodiment,” “anembodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodimentis included in at least one of the many possible embodiments of thepresent inventions. The terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” andvariations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expresslyspecified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply thatany or all of the items are mutually exclusive and/or mutuallyinclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an,”and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specifiedotherwise.

Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics ofone embodiment may be combined in any suitable manner in one or moreother embodiments. In the following description, numerous specificdetails are provided, such as examples of programming, software modules,user selections, network transactions, database queries, databasestructures, hardware modules, hardware circuits, hardware chips, etc.,to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the disclosure.Those of skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure willunderstand that the inventions may be practiced without one or more ofthe specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, andso forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, oroperations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuringaspects of the disclosure.

Aspects of the present disclosure are described below with reference toschematic flowchart diagrams and/or schematic block diagrams of methods,apparatuses, systems, and computer program products according toembodiments of the disclosure. It will be understood by those of skillin the art that each block of the schematic flowchart diagrams and/orschematic block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the schematicflowchart diagrams and/or schematic block diagrams, may be implementedby computer program instructions. Such computer program instructions maybe provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, specialpurpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus tocreate a machine or device, such that the instructions, which executevia the processor of the computer or other programmable data processingapparatus, structurally configured to implement the functions/actsspecified in the schematic flowchart diagrams and/or schematic blockdiagrams block or blocks. These computer program instructions also maybe stored in a computer readable storage medium that can direct acomputer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devicesto function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored inthe computer readable storage medium produce an article of manufactureincluding instructions which implement the function/act specified in theschematic flowchart diagrams and/or schematic block diagrams block orblocks. The computer program instructions also may be loaded onto acomputer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devicesto cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer,other programmable apparatus or other devices to produce a computerimplemented process such that the instructions that execute on thecomputer or other programmable apparatus provide processes forimplementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram block or blocks.

It also should be noted that, in some possible embodiments, thefunctions may occur out of the order noted in the figures. Other stepsand methods may be conceived that are equivalent in function, logic, oreffect to the illustrated figures.

The description of elements in each Figure may refer to elements ofproceeding Figures. Like numbers refer to like elements in all figures,including alternate embodiments of like elements. In some possibleembodiments, the functions/actions/structures noted in the figures mayoccur out of the order noted in the block diagrams and/or operationalillustrations. For example, two operations shown as occurring insuccession, in fact, may be executed substantially concurrently or theoperations may be executed in the reverse order, depending upon thefunctionality/acts/structure involved.

To begin, the detailed background and history of my inventions disclosedherein are set forth in my related patents, U.S. Pat. No. 7,112,029,entitled Carrier Apparatus and Method,” and U.S. Pat. No. 10,155,467,entitled Systems and Methods for Transporting a Structure.” The entirecontents of each related patent are incorporated herein by reference forall purposes as if fully reprinted herein.

In general, the inventions disclosed herein for which protection issought comprise modular foundation systems, and systems and methods forcasting or forming modular foundation systems; and systems and methodsfor lifting and transporting modular foundation systems. Modularfoundation systems according to the inventions disclosed herein aretypically, but not exclusively formed form a concrete matrix includingreinforcing materials, such as structural steel bar (e.g., rebar), tube,channel, and wire mesh. The use of these reinforcing materials is mostlyunderstood by those skilled in the art of modular foundations, and willnot be treated herein. In contrast, the inventions disclosed herein aredirected to structural aspects of a modular foundation that permit thefoundation to be repeatedly lifted, and to be transported overconventional road without causing failure, such as tension failure, ofthe foundation. It is well understood that concrete or cement-basedfoundations have superior compressive strength and poor tensilestrength. For example, lifting a modular, concrete-based foundation(even with conventional reinforcement) likely will result in atransverse tension fracture. The inventions described herein allow amodular foundation, such as a concrete-based modular foundation not onlyto be lifted, but also transported.

One embodiment of the modular foundation system disclosed hereincomprises pre-tensioned cables embedded in side beams of the foundation,and safety tension bars partially embedded in an interior portion of thefoundation such that the embedded portion is recessed from thefoundation end, and the exposed portion terminates at about thefoundation end. A tension bolster is configured to fit in the recessedarea of the foundation and operatively coupled to the safety tensionbars at each of the foundation. In a preferred embodiment, the tensionbolster is substantially shielded by the foundation with only a smallportion of the bolster extending beyond the foundation. Once the tensionbolster is coupled to the safety tension bars, the tension bolster canbe used to lift the foundation and can be used as a safety featureduring transportation.

For transporting a modular foundation, tension components, such as wirerope cables are spanned between the tension bolsters at each end of thefoundation system. Each tension component is tensioned (e.g., stretched)to a load of about between 500 lbf and 1,000 lbf per tension component.Each tension component may be secured to locked to the tension bolsterto create a structure against which a compressive force may be generatedto clamp (compress) and lift the foundation system. Thus, one aspect ofthe inventions comprises a modular foundation system comprising aplurality of pre-tensioned cable embedded in the foundation along with aplurality of embedded lifting safety rods adjacent each end of thefoundation system.

The tension bolster contemplated by the inventions disclosed herein maybe operatively coupled to a modular foundation system and left in place,such for foundations that may be subject to repeated movements orlifting. Alternately, the tension bolster contemplated by the inventionsdisclosed herein may be operatively coupled to a modular foundationsystem and then removed, such for foundations that are not subject torepeated movements or lifting. In either situation the modularfoundation system has no to very little additional structure emanatingfrom the foundation.

A lifting and transporting device, such as a lifting frame and one ormore load arms, may attach to each end of the modular foundation toapply a compressing force to the foundation, preferably adjacent the topportion of the foundation system to further clamp the foundation. Oncethe compressing force has been applied by the lifting and transportingdevice, the foundation may be lifted and transported.

Another aspect of the inventions comprises adjustably lifting thestructure to heights ranging between about 5 inches to about 15 feetabove the ground, and preferably from about 5 inches to about 4.5 feetto allow transport over most roadways and roadway crossings.

Another aspect of the inventions comprises one or more motorized,steerable bogies configured to attach to the tension and compressionbolsters for lifting and moving the structure. The bogies may becontrolled by wired remote or wireless remote.

The inventions disclosed herein are adaptable for use with all kinds ofstructures that need to be lifted and transported. For example, and notfor limitation, “structures” may include oilfield components, equipmentsleds, transportation containers, or any other physical structure havingcompressive strength and little tensile strength. For convenience andclarity only, Applicant has chosen to disclose these inventions in thecontext of mobile, modular housing units having a concrete-basedfoundation having little tensile strength. It will be understood andappreciated after having the benefit of this disclosure that theinventions taught herein, and the protection sought for these inventionsis not limited to the modular housing industry or housing units as thestructure lifted and transported.

Another aspect of the inventions comprise casting or forming a modularfoundation system from a mold in which a portion of the mold is formedfrom insulation material, and the insulation material becomes anoperative part of the modular foundation system.

Turning now to descriptions of one or more of the many possibleembodiments of the present inventions, FIG. 1A illustrates an undersideperspective view of a modular foundation system 100 comprising a topsurface 102 or floor, first and second sides 104 and 106, a first end108, and a second end 110 opposite the first end 108 (not shown in FIG.1A). It is preferred that the modular foundation system 100 befabricated from a concrete matrix with appropriate metal reinforcement,as will be discussed in more detail below. As can be seen in FIG. 1A,the sides 104 and 106 also may function as beams 111 and 112 to supportthe floor 102. The first end 108 (and second end 110) may comprise atransverse beam 114 to support the floor 102. One or more othertransverse beams 116 made be formed in the modular foundation system asneeded or desired.

It is preferred that each of the first and second sides 104, 106comprise at each end a load reaction column 118 a, 118 b and 120 a, 120b. In some embodiments, like that illustrated in FIG. 1A, and nowreferring to FIG. 1B, the reaction columns 118, 120 preferably comprisea rectangular tube 122, such as a structural steel square tube with awall thickness of more or less than a ¼ inch. The tube 122 may be joinedto a length of C-channel 124, such as a structural steel channel, with awall thickness of more or less than a ¼ inch. When metal components areused, joining of the components preferably comprises welding. The openends 126 of the tube 122 made be covered with plates and welded closed,as well. Similarly, the open end of the channel 128 made be covered andwelded as well. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the load reaction columns 118a, 118 b and 120 a, 120 b are cast or formed into the foundation system100 at each end of sides 104 and 106. For concrete-based foundationsystems, additional bonding points 130, such as T-heads, may be weldedto the channel 124, the tube 122 or both to promote greater bonding withthe matrix.

Referring back to FIG. 1A, the modular foundation system 100 maycomprise a plurality of lifting safety bars 132 a, 132 b, 134 a and 134b (132 b and 134 b not shown in FIG. 1A). As illustrated, lifting safetybars 132 and 134 may be embedded in the modular foundation system 100.Referring to FIG. 1C, the lifting safety bars 132 and 134 may comprise alength of threaded rebar 150, and one or more bonding plates 152 weldedor otherwise joined to the rebar 150. As will be discussed in moredetail below, it is preferred that the proximal end 154 of the safetybar 132, 134 be flush with the ends 108, 110 of the foundation system100, and that a portion of the safety bar 132, 134 is left exposed andnot embedded in the foundation system 100.

Also illustrated in FIG. 1A, are a plurality of pretensioned cables 170,172 embedded in the side beams 111, 112. In a preferred embodiment, six½ diameter wire cables are positioned in each side beam and tensioned tobetween about 500 lbf and 750 lbf while the concrete is poured and sets.Once the concrete has set, the tension can be released and the wirecables can be cut flush with the reaction columns 118, 120. For example,a cutting torch can be used to cut individual wire cables or individualwire strands in a wire cable in alternating fashion, one on each side,until all wire cables are severed. It will be appreciated that thereaction columns, 118, 120 and the pre-tensioned cables 170, 172structurally cooperate with the lifting and transporting systemsdescribed below.

FIG. 2 illustrates an end view of foundation system 100 comprising loadreaction columns 118, 120, composed of tubes 122 and channels 124. Aplurality of pre-tensioned cables 170 and 172 are illustrated in eachside beam and terminate in the reaction columns 118, 120. Lifting safetybars 132 a and 134 a are also illustrated. In this particularembodiment, the overall height “H” of the foundation system 100 may beabout 20 inches, and may consist of a floor thickness “h₁” of betweenabout 3 and 4 inches, a transverse beam 116 thickness h₂ of about 12inches, and side beam thickness h₃ of about 4 to about 6 inches. Thewidth of this particular foundation system 100 is about 12 feet.

FIG. 2 also illustrates a floor 102 variation that can be implemented asneeded or desired. If the building or structure to be erected on themodular foundation system 100 will utilize steel framing, such asstructural steel columns, the top surface 126 of tube 122, whichpreferably is welded closed, is free 202 of foundation material (e.g.,concrete) so that the framing columns may be welded directed to the loadreaction columns 118, 120. Alternately, for wood framing, the foundationmaterial (e.g., concrete) may cover 204 the top of the load reactioncolumns 118, 120. FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the foundationsystem 100 of FIG. 2 . The position of the lifting safety bars relativeto the end of the foundation is shown.

FIG. 4 illustrates a form or mold 400 useful in creating modularfoundation systems according to the inventions disclosed herein. Themold 400 may comprise a frame 400 configured to produce a foundationsystem of the desired length “L,” desired width “W,” and height “H.” Forthis particular mold, the floor 102 is at the top of the mold 400. Thosepersons of skill having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciatethat the mold 400 will comprise shielding and other structures thatprevent concrete from filling those regions of the foundation systemthat should not have concrete. Those block outs or shielding will not bedescribed further. Once the boundaries of the mold 400 are established asheet of closed-cell foam 408, such as a polyethylene foam, may beplaced in the mold 400, as shown. Additionally, closed-cell foamsections 410, 412 and 414 may be positioned in the mold 400 such thatthe voids for end transverse beams 404 and transverse beams 406 andlifting safety bars 132, 134 are formed.

Those persons of skill having the benefit of this disclosure also willappreciate that reinforcing bars and/or reinforcing mesh may be placedin the form 400 as required or needed to produce the foundation strengthnecessary of the particular purpose of the foundation system.

Once the mold 400 is ready, concrete may be poured into the mold 400 tofill the voids and create the modular foundation system contemplated bythis disclosure. Once the concrete has cured, the foundation system maybe removed from the mold 400 and the closed-cell foam will adhere to theconcrete creating an insulated foundation system. Depending on thethicknesses of the closed-cell foam used, insulation ratings as high asan R39 or R40 may be obtained. In addition, the closed cell foam mayhave or may be given pesticide properties.

FIG. 5 illustrates aspects of an embodiment of a tension bolster 500configured to operatively couple with the foundation systems disclosedherein to aid the lifting and transporting of foundation systems. Thetension bolster 500 may comprise a body or frame 502 configured toengage the safety lifting bars 132, 134 described previously. Receiversor openings 504, 506 may be formed or located in the body 502 andconfigured to allow the safety lifting bars 132, 134 pass therethrough,as illustrated in FIG. 6 . The frame 502 also comprises a plurality ofopenings 508 lying in the same plane as the safety lifting bars 132,134. While two sets of three openings 508 are illustrated, the numberand location along the frame is a design consideration well within thepurview of a person of skill having benefit of this disclosure.

The tension bolster 500 also may comprise at least one reaction point514 capable of reacting the forces involved in lifting and/ortransporting the foundation system, as described more fully below. FIG.5 illustrates an embodiment of a tension bolster 500 having two reactionpoints 514 a and 514 b adjacent ends of the bolster 500. Each reactionpoint 514 may comprise two lugs 510 with a rod or other structuralmember 512 spanning between the two lugs 510. A portion of a secondreaction point 514 b is illustrated with a lug 510 and member 512. Itwill be understood that that the second lug 510 has been omitted forclarity. As illustrated in FIG. 5 , it is preferred that the receivers504, the openings 508 and the members 512 all lie in a common plane.

Other embodiments of reaction point 514 are contemplated by theseinventions. For example and not limitation, for a 12′ by 40′ foundationsystem it is preferred that the tension bolster 500 comprise tworeaction point sets, where each set is located adjacent an end of theframe 502 (as illustrated in FIG.), and where each set comprises fourlugs 510 and two members 512. See for example FIG. 10 .

The tension bolster 500 may be fabricated by welding structural steelcomponents. Other materials may be used subject to the strength andmaterial property requirements.

FIG. 6 illustrates an underside view of a foundation system according tothe inventions disclosed herein with a tension bolster 500 operativelycoupled to the foundation system. It will be understood that only oneend 108 of the foundation system 100 is illustrated.

As illustrated in FIG. 6 , the tension bolster may be coupled to thefoundation system 100 by inserting the safety lifting bars 132 a and 134a into and through the receivers 504 and 506 b in the tension bolster500. Because the safety tension bar has threads, a nut 602 may be usedto secure the tension bolster 500 to the foundation system 100. The nuts602, 604 and safety lifting bars 132, 134 are preferably sized andconfigured to react the loads encountered by the lifting bar 500 duringlifting and transporting the foundation system 100. It will beunderstood that a similar tension bolster 500 is operatively coupled tothe other end 110 of the foundation system 100.

Once both tension bolsters 500 are coupled to the foundation system 100,one or more, and preferably a plurality of, tension components 610, 612,such as wire rope, cables or rods, are strung between the tensionbolsters 500 and each end thereof is fed through a bolster opening 508,as illustrated in FIG. 6 . A tension component fastener 606, 608 is usedwith each end of the tension component to lock the tension component610, 612 to the tension bolsters 500. As described in my previouspatents, a tensile force may be applied to each tension component, suchas by a hydraulic rain, and the fastener 606, 608 used to lock in thetensile force. In presently preferred embodiments, the tensioncomponents comprise ½ inch wire rope, and each tension component isloaded with between about 500 lbf and 1,000 lbf of tension.

As illustrated in FIG. 6 , it is preferred that the tension bolster 500be at least partially shielded by the foundation system 100, with onlyportion of the reaction points 514 extending beyond the foundationsystem 100. It will now be appreciated that once the tension bolster 500and tension components 610, 612 are operatively coupled to thefoundation system, the tension bolster 500 and tension components 610,612 may remain indefinitely with the foundation system 100. It istherefore preferred to minimize the amount by which the tension bolsters500 protrude beyond the foundation system 100.

FIG. 7 illustrates a preferred tension component fastener 700 suitablefor use with a wire rope tension component 610, 612. The fastenercomprises a body 702 have an end surface 704 configured to contact thetension bolster 500 about the tension component opening 508. The bodymay be fabricated from metal stock, such as bar stock. An opening isformed through the body 702 and is configured to accept the wire ropecomponent 610, 612, as illustrated. The end opposite surface 704 maycomprise external threads for receiving an external cap 710. Inside thebody 702, and collinear with the wire rope opening, an angled surface706, such as a conical surface, is formed. A plurality, and preferableat least three, wedge lock elements 708 are configured to engage theangled surface 706 and to simultaneously engage the wire rope. Those ofskill in the art having benefit of this disclosure will appreciate howthis embodiment of a fastener 700 facilitates tensioning the tensioncomponent 610, 612 and locking in that tension by inserting the wedgelock elements 708 into the body.

To prevent the wedge lock elements 708 from working loose or looseningduring lifting or transporting of the foundation system, a cap 710 mayapplied, such as by threading on to the body 702. The cap may includeinternal components that press on the wedge locks to keep them in place.The cap also may include an opening 712 through which a portion of thetension component may extend. Alternately, a C-clip or other similarstructure may engage a groove in the body to hold the wedge lockelements 708 in place. It will be appreciated that other and furthertension component fasteners are contemplated by the inventions disclosedherein.

Because the tension components 610, 612 are part of the system andmethod for lifting and transporting a foundation system, it isbeneficial to be notified if and when a tension components breaks orloses tension. In one embodiment of the present inventions, a strainsensing device, such as a strain gauge 720, may be utilized to detectwhen the tensile load imposed on the tension component 610, 612 islessened or eliminated. Additionally, strain gage 720 may be used todetermine when the correct amount of tension has been applied to thetension component 610, 612.

FIG. 8 illustrates aspects of an embodiment of a compression bolster 800configured to operatively couple with the foundation systems disclosedherein to aid the lifting and transporting of foundation systems. Thecompression bolster 800 may comprise a body or frame 802 having asurface 804 configured to compressively engage an end 108, 110 offoundation system 100 adjacent the top or floor surface 102. It ispreferred, but not required, that the surface 804 comprise a pad 806,such as high-density rubber or plastic, to provide and interface betweenthe compression bolster and the foundation system 100. It will beappreciated that the compression bolsters (one at each end) areconfigured to apply a compressive force to the foundation system 100sufficient to allow the foundation system 100 to be lifted andtransported without the foundation system experiencing a tensile orother failure mechanism. To this end, the compression bolster 800 maycomprise at least one compression reaction point 808 through which acompressive force may be applied to the compression bolster 800. Asillustrated in FIG. 8 , the compression bolster comprises twocompression reaction points 808, each comprising a set of lugs 810 witha structural member 812, such as a rod, extending between them. It ispreferred that the reaction point(s) 808 allow for a compressive forceto be evenly and uniformly applied to the foundation system along thelength of the bolster 800.

Other embodiments of compression bolster 800 are contemplated by theseinventions. For example and not limitation, for a 12′ by 40′ foundationsystem it is preferred that the compression bolster 800 comprise tworeaction point sets, where each set is located adjacent an end of theframe 502 (as illustrated in FIG. 8 ), and where each set comprises fourlugs 810 and two members 812. See for example FIG. 10 . Still further athird reaction point 808 may be disposed between the two reaction pointsets described above to more evenly distribute the compression load tothe foundation system 100.

FIG. 8 also illustrates optional guide pins 820 extending away from thebolster 800 toward the foundation system 100 and configured to interfacewith corresponding receptacles formed in the foundation system 100, suchas illustrated in FIG. 9 .

FIG. 9 illustrates a foundation system, such as foundation system 100,with a compression bolster 802 and a tension bolster 502 operativelycoupled thereto. It will be appreciated that there is a similarcompression bolster 802 and a tension bolster 502 operatively coupled atthe other end of the foundation system 100 as well. The tension bolster502 is shown attached to the safety lifting bar 132 a with nut 602.Tension components 608 and corresponding fasteners 612 are also shown.It will be appreciated that the two tension bolsters are under tensionsupplied by the tension components. The compression bolster 802 is showncoupled to the foundation system 100 adjacent the top surface 102. Theoptional guide pin 820 is shown loosely interfacing a receptacle in thereaction column 120. Also illustrated in FIG. 9 is a load arm 902. Theload arm 902 is configured to interface with one or more of the tensionreaction points 514 on the tension bolster 500 and one or more of thecompression reaction points 808 on the compression bolster 800. As willbe described further below, a force applied to the load arm is reactedby the tension bolster and causes a compressive or clamping force to beapplied by the compression bolster 800 to the foundation system.

FIG. 10 further illustrates how the two bolsters work together to clampthe foundation system for lifting or transporting. A load frame 1002 maycomprise one or more legs 1004, each of which may support one or moreload arms 902. As shown, each load arm 902 engages a tension bolsterreaction point 514 adjacent on one end, and also engages a compressionbolster reaction point 808. Another end of the load arm 902 may becoupled to a force-producing device 1006, such as a hydraulic cylinderor linear motor. The load frame 1002 may be, and preferably is, part ofa bogie (not shown) as described in my other patents and incorporatedherein by reference.

FIG. 11 . Illustrates a modular foundation system 100 with a structure1100 erected thereon being lifted and transported according to thepresent inventions. Bogies 1102 and 1008 supply the compressive andlifting force, and can adjust the height of the foundation system 100above the roadbed as needed to clear obstacles, such as railroadcrossing and underpasses.

FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of a foundation system accordingto the inventions disclosed herein. Foundation system 1200 is similar tofoundation system 100 described above in most respects, includingpretension cables 1270 and 1272. However, in this embodiment, the safetylifting bars 1250 may be embedded in the side beams 1204 and 1206.

FIG. 13 illustrates a tension bolster 1302 suitable for use with thistype of foundation system 1200. The tension bolster 1302 may comprise aT-plate having a plurality of openings for tension components 1304. TheT-plate preferably has a surface configured to compressively engage thefoundation system 1200, and may utilize a high-density rubber or plasticpad as described above. It is understood that there is a similar T-plateat the opposite end of the foundation system 1200 and two or moretension components 1304 span between the tension bolsters 1302 on theinside and the outside of the side beam 1204. Suitable tension isapplied to the tension components 1304 and the tensile force is lockedin with use of tension component fasteners 1306, such as describedabove.

To lift or to lift and move modular foundation system 1200, a reactionpoint assembly 1400, such as illustrated in FIG. 14 may be used.Reaction point assembly 1400 may comprise two plates configured to becoupled to the tension bolster 1302 as illustrated, and to securelycouple to the safety tension bar 1250. An opening 1408 in the platesallows a load arm, such as described above, to interface with thetension bolster 1302. Alternately, a structural member or rod (notshown) may be supplied for interfacing with the load arm. It will beappreciated that this type of tension bolster 1302 and reaction pointassembly 1400 will be used at each of the four corners of the foundationsystem 1200 and may be used in conjunction with the compression bolsterdescribed above.

Other and further embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of theinventions described above can be devised without departing from thespirit of Applicant's invention. Further, the various methods andembodiments of the methods of manufacture and assembly of the system, aswell as location specifications, can be included in combination witheach other to produce variations of the disclosed methods andembodiments. Discussion of singular elements can include plural elementsand vice-versa.

The order of steps can occur in a variety of sequences unless otherwisespecifically limited. The various steps described herein can be combinedwith other steps, interlineated with the stated steps, and/or split intomultiple steps. Similarly, elements have been described functionally andcan be embodied as separate components or can be combined intocomponents having multiple functions.

The inventions have been described in the context of preferred and otherembodiments and not every embodiment of the invention has beendescribed. Obvious modifications and alterations to the describedembodiments are available to those of ordinary skill in the art. Thedisclosed and undisclosed embodiments are not intended to limit orrestrict the scope or applicability of the invention conceived of by theApplicants, but rather, in conformity with the patent laws, Applicantsintend to protect fully all such modifications and improvements thatcome within the scope or range of equivalent of the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for transporting a modular foundation, comprising: a load frame; a load arm operatively coupled to the load frame; a force-producing device operatively coupled between the load frame and the load arm; the load arm engages a tension reaction point on an end of the modular foundation; the load arm also engages a compression reaction point on the end of the modular foundation; a load frame leg depending from the load frame and coupled to the load arm so that the load arm can rotate in relation to the load frame leg; and wherein the force-producing device is energized to apply a compressive force at the compression reaction point, apply a tension force at the tension reaction point, and lift the modular foundation while the modular foundation is in compression.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the force-producing device is a hydraulic ram or a linear motor.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein the force-producing device is coupled to the load arm adjacent a first end of the load arm, and the load frame leg is coupled to the load arm closer to a second end than to the first end.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the second end of the load arm engages the tension reaction point.
 5. The system of claim 3, wherein the compression reaction point engages the load arm between where the load frame leg is coupled to the load arm and the first end.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein energizing the force-producing device causes the modular foundation to be displaced in a vertical direction up to 4.5 feet.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the system is motorized for transporting the modular foundation in a horizontal direction.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the system is steerable.
 9. The system of claim 6, wherein the second end of the load arm engages a tension bolster and the tension bolster engages the tension reaction point and wherein the load arm engages a compression bolster and the compression bolster engages the compression reaction point.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the tension and compression bolsters are removable from the modular foundation.
 11. The system of claim 2, wherein the second end of the load arm engages a tension bolster and the tension bolster engages the tension reaction point.
 12. The system of claim 2, wherein the load arm engages a compression bolster and the compression bolster engages the compression reaction point.
 13. A system for transporting a modular foundation, the modular foundation having two ends opposite each other, the system comprising: a pair of load frames, wherein each load frame comprises at least one load frame leg depending from the load frame; a plurality of load frame arms, each load frame arm having a first end and a second end, each load frame arm rotatably coupled to the at least one load frame leg at a pivot point that is closer to the second end than to the first end; a force-producing device operatively coupled to the first end of each load frame arm; each load frame arm operatively engages adjacent the second end a tension reaction point on one of the two ends of the modular foundation; each load frame arm also operatively engages between the pivot point and the first end a compression reaction point on the one end of the modular foundation; and wherein the force-producing device is energized to apply a compressive force to the modular foundation at the compression reaction point, a tension force to the modular foundation at the tension reaction point, and lift the modular foundation while the compressive force is applied to the modular foundation.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the force-producing device is a hydraulic ram or a linear motor.
 15. The system of claim 13, wherein the second end of the load arm engages a tension bolster and the tension bolster engages the tension reaction point and wherein the load arm engages a compression bolster and the compression bolster engages the compression reaction point.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein each load frame arm is associated with its own force-producing device.
 17. The system of claim 15, wherein energizing the force-producing device causes the modular foundation to be displaced in a vertical direction up to 4.5 feet.
 18. The system of claim 13, wherein the system is motorized for transporting the modular foundation in a horizontal direction.
 19. The system of claim 13, wherein the system is steerable.
 20. A system for transporting a modular foundation, comprising: a load frame; a load arm operatively coupled to the load frame; a load frame leg depending from the load frame and coupled to the load arm so that the load arm can rotate relative to the load frame leg; a force-producing device comprising a hydraulic ram or a linear motor operatively coupled between the load frame and the load arm; wherein the load arm engages a tension reaction point on an end of the modular foundation; wherein the load arm also engages a compression reaction point on the end of the modular foundation; and wherein the force-producing device is energized to apply a compressive force at the compression reaction point, apply a tension force at the tension reaction point, and lift the modular foundation while the modular foundation is in compression.
 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the modular foundation comprises reinforced concrete. 